The 1978 Hillsdale graduate recently donated a lead gift to establish an endowment for graduate scholarships and graduate school operations.

"Steve Van Andel has an outstanding record of principled service in business, in life, and in his work with the College," Hillsdale President Larry P. Arnn said in a statement. "It is an honor and privilege to have his family name attached to our graduate school."

Hillsdale College launched the Graduate School of Statesmanship in 2012. Offering both an M.A. and a Ph.D. in Politics, its purpose is to revive the language of American constitutionalism and to lay the groundwork for restoring the Constitution's authority in government.

"As an alumnus of Hillsdale College, it has given me great pleasure and satisfaction to see the Graduate School take shape," said Van Andel, who also serves on the College's Board of Trustees. "I've always admired the philosophy of this fine institution, and I'm happy to partner with Hillsdale to further the college's long-standing mission of education."